Heat Wave Moves Over Metro Detroit

DETROIT (WWJ) - Just ahead of the official start of summer (June 20), Metro Detroit is expecting a couple of days with near record-high temperatures.

After storms knocked out power to thousands of DTE customers Monday, primarily Downriver, about 1,700 homes and businesses are soon expected to be back on the grid -- just in time to crank up the air conditioner to battle 90 degree temperatures.

CBS 62 Chief Meteorologist Jim Madaus said temperatures Tuesday will approach the record high of 95 degrees, which was set back in 1995. He said the average temperature this time of year is around 81 degrees. Last year, it was 86 degrees on June 19.

"By dinner time Tuesday, 6 p.m., we're still looking at 91 degrees in Metro Detroit with high humidity levels," he said.

Madaus said the hot and humid weather will stick around through Wednesday, until a rain system passes over the area and cools temperatures about 10 degrees on Thursday.

In extremely hot weather, health officials say everyone should take precautions and look for ways to stay cool.  In order to avoid heat illness, the Michigan Department of Community Health says use air conditioning whenever possible or spend time in an air-conditioned location, stay hydrated, and minimize direct exposure to the sun.  (More tips here).

"Everyone is at risk when it comes to the effects of extreme heat, but the elderly and young children are especially vulnerable," said Dean Sienko, Interim Chief Medical Executive of the MDCH. "During extreme heat, it's a good idea to check frequently on loved ones, neighbors and friends who may be at a greater risk for heat illness."

Here's the local forecast from the CBS Detroit Weather Team:

Tuesday -- Breezy, hot and humid with clouds breaking. Hi 96. Clear to partly cloudy overnight, warm and humid. Lo 74.

Wednesday -- Mostly sunny; breezy, hot and humid. Hi 94. Partly cloudy, warm and humid overnight. Lo 70.

Thursday -- Intervals of clouds and sun with a shower or thunderstorm around; warm. Hi 85. Turning clear and cooler overnight. Lo 69.

Find a list of Cooling Centers around metro Detroit here.

Know before you go: Keep it tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 for traffic and weather, every 10 minutes on the 8s.

Check the CBS Detroit weather page for the extended forecast and up-to-the-minute information.

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